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This is a list of permits that may be required by the Tacoma Fire Department for Commercial projects. Permit submittals are made via the www.tacomapermits.org website.
A project-specific list of separate applicable Fire permits is provided at the time of Building Permit issuance. Project-specific guidance can also be provided as part of a pre-development request.
Examples of items covered by the Commercial Fire Protection permit type:
- Fire Alarm Systems
- Fire Sprinkler Systems
- Standpipe Systems
- Fire Sprinkler Supply Lines
- Private Fire Hydrants
- Smoke Control Systems
- Emergency Responder Radio Enhancement Systems
- Kitchen Hood Suppression Systems (UL300)
- Clean Agent Suppression Systems
- Alternative Automatic Fire Extinguishing Systems
AVAILABLE EPERMITS
Proposals with a limited scope may also be eligible for an ePermit. If applying for an ePermit be sure to read the scope limitations carefully, as ePermit fees are nonrefundable.
Items potentially eligible for ePermitting:
- Modifications to existing fire sprinkler systems where not more than 6 standard spray fire sprinklers are added or relocated.
- Modifications to existing fire alarm systems where not more than 6 notification appliances are added or relocated.
- Installation or replacement of fire alarm system transmitters.
OPERATIONAL PERMITS
Permits must be obtained from the Fire Department for a wide variety of other activities where a fire or life safety hazards may exist. Examples of items requiring an operational permit include (but are not limited to):
- Special Events
- Public Assembly Occupancies
- Storage or Use of Hazardous Materials
- Hazardous Operations such as Hot Work and Spray Finishing
- Mobile Fueling
Go to: https://www.cityoftacoma.org/government/city_departments/
fire/divisions/fire_prevention_div/operational_permits for Tacoma Fire Department Operational Permit applications.
For questions on Tacoma Fire Department Operational Permits, call the Fire Prevention Division at 253-591-5740.
NOTES ON KNOX BOX REQUIREMENTS
During building permit review, the Tacoma Fire Department may require that a Knox™ box or Knox™ vault be provided outside the main building entrance, fronting on the addressed street with all keys to access the building, gates, fire sprinkler riser room, fire alarm control panel room, electrical room, mechanical rooms, all rooms with fire protection equipment or controls, elevator machine room.
Knox™ box applications/order forms are available from the Knox™ Company at www.knoxbox.com. Prior to installation, contact the Fire Prevention Bureau at (253) 591-5740 to set up a pre-installation inspection to approve the location of the Knox™ Box.
CONTRACTOR LICENSING REQUIREMENTS
Fire protection systems permits must be issued to a contractor with a City of Tacoma Fire Protection License. Exceptions: Private fire hydrants, emergency responder radio enhancement systems, smoke control systems.
Go to: https://www.cityoftacoma.org/government/city_departments/
fire/divisions/fire_prevention_div/fire_protection_license for more information.
All work shall comply with the currently adopted edition of the International Fire Code (IFC) as amended by the State of Washington and City of Tacoma as well as all relevant NFPA standards. It is the responsibility of the owner and the owner’s design team to ensure the IFC and NFPA standards are met.
RESOURCES
- International Fire Code (IFC)
- National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Codes and Standards
